Once again, Summit Racing Equipment is reaching out to automotive enthusiasts to raise awareness about an issue that could directly affect your hobby.

Recently, the U.S. Court of Appeals dismissed a lawsuit which challenged the Environmental Protection Agency's (EPA) authority to permit 15% ethanol (E15 content in gasoline for 2001 and newer model year cars and light trucks). Along with SEMA and its member companies, we oppose the use of E15 based on scientific evidence that it causes corrosion on incompatible parts—specifically aftermarket parts designed for performance vehicles like yours.

To protect your hobby, SEMA is seeking the passage of congressional legislation (H.R. 3199), which would prevent the EPA from permitting E15 sales until the National Academies has conducted a study on how E15 may impact gas-powered vehicles. With little time to address the bill before the fall elections, it's important that lawmakers hear from you. Without your help, E15 fuel may soon appear at a gas station near you!

We Urge You to Contact Your Members of Congress to Request Their Support for H.R. 3199…

Here are a Few Talking Points:
Ethanol increases water formation that can then create formic acid and corrode metals, plastics, and rubber. Older cars and certain high performance specialty parts are not constructed with corrosion-resistant materials or able to tolerate the higher temperatures at which E15 may burn.

The EPA has acknowledged the dangers and made it "illegal" to put E15 in pre-2001 vehicles. However, the EPA is willing to risk destruction of the vehicle/parts by relying solely on a gas pump label cautioning motorists not to misfuel their older vehicles. The EPA estimates that there are 74 million such vehicles in harm's way.

Many auto enthusiasts have complained for years about damage caused by E10, which is now in over 90% of gas sold in the U.S. For example, corrosion has time to damage the engine, fuel line, fuel tank, and exhaust systems when classic cars are infrequently driven. E15 increases the risk of corrosion by 50%.

The EPA permitted the sale of E15 before there was conclusive information with respect to materials compatibility, tailpipe emissions and fuel efficiency.

H.R. 3199 would stop the sale of E15 until the National Academies has conducted a study on how gasoline blended with 15-20% ethanol may impact gas-powered vehicles.

Contact your members of Congress immediately by phone or e-mail to
request their support of HR 3199.

To identify your federal Representative and Senators in the U.S. Congress, click here.